Editor’s note: The following story is being republished to correct and clarify information first presented in the May 19 edition.
Cincinnati-based Kroger Co. has announced changes to senior leadership, which includes an update for its Utah-based Smith’s division.
Kenny Kimball, who has been Smith’s president since 2016, has also been carrying out dual responsibilities, for the past three years, as senior vice president of Kroger Retail Divisions. Kroger announced Kimball will focus all his time on leading the Smith’s division and no longer manage senior vice president responsibilities.
Starting in 1984 as a courtesy clerk, Kimball began his career at Kroger in the Smith’s division. After working in several leadership roles with Smith’s, including store manager, district manager and bakery director, Kimball was named Smith’s senior vice president of sales and merchandising in 2009. In 2012, he became vice president of merchandising for Kroger’s Ralphs division and was named vice president of operations for Ralphs in 2013.
Kimball took a special assignment with Kroger’s general office in 2015 before returning to Smith’s as vice president of operations in 2016. He was promoted to president of the division later that year.
“We’re grateful for Kenny’s leadership as he stepped up to lead retail divisions in addition to his role as Smith’s division president,” said Ron Sargent, Kroger chairman and CEO. “His commitment to our associates and customers is inspirational. He will continue to play an integral role on our leadership team, supporting strategic priorities and mentoring the next generation of Kroger leaders.”
Based in Salt Lake City, Smith’s operates 143 stores throughout seven western states, employing nearly 20,000 people.